A single photograph can change your life forever. For Elliot Campbell, it was a picture of Cherokee's Boy, a Maryland-bred racehorse, that ignited a passion he never knew he had. But here's where it gets even more fascinating: Campbell, an Oklahoma native who moved to Baltimore at 24, had never even attended a horse race before stumbling upon that photo at a local GNC store. Little did he know, this chance encounter would lead him to become the steward of a legacy—ZWP Stables.
The story takes an emotional turn when Campbell meets the store owner, Dave Picarello, one of ZWP Stable’s co-founders. Picarello’s invitation to a race marked the beginning of Campbell’s journey into the world of horse racing. Fast forward to 2023, after Picarello’s passing, Campbell, alongside trainer Gary Capuano, took the reins of ZWP Stables to honor their friend’s memory. And this is where the tale truly gallops forward.
On December 6, ZWP Stables and Capuano’s Non Stop Stables celebrated a milestone when their homebred filly, Just Philtored, won the Maryland Juvenile Filly Stakes at Laurel Park. But here’s the part most people miss: Just Philtored isn’t just another winner; she’s the daughter of Great Notion and the product of Slow and Steady, a 25-year-old Malibu Moon mare who has been the cornerstone of ZWP’s breeding program. Slow and Steady, despite her age, is carrying her final foal by Arcangelo, capping off a remarkable career that includes 12 runners earning over $2 million.
And this is where it gets controversial: Campbell’s acquisition of ZWP Stables under his company, London Reid Thoroughbreds, raises questions about the future of the stable’s legacy. While Campbell insists it’s a tribute to Picarello and Foard Wilgis, another late partner, some might wonder if the transition dilutes the original spirit of ZWP. Campbell’s horses will now race primarily under London Reid Thoroughbreds, though some partnerships remain intact. Is this evolution or erosion? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Campbell’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Despite managing a small broodmare band, he’s achieved mighty results, thanks to Slow and Steady’s consistent success. Her offspring, like Just Philtored and Malibu Beauty (a multiple stakes winner earning nearly $1 million), are carrying the torch for future generations. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Can a breeding program truly thrive without its original founders? Or does the essence of success lie in the horses themselves?
Campbell credits a dedicated team for his achievements, from Lynn Ashby of Marlyn Meadow Farms to Capuano’s daughter, Tori, who works with the young horses. It’s a collaborative effort, he emphasizes, even if he’s miles away. As Slow and Steady prepares for retirement after the 2026 season, Campbell hopes her legacy will endure through her fillies, particularly Malibu Beauty, who is set to visit Vekoma in 2026.
Here’s the bold truth: Slow and Steady isn’t just a broodmare; she’s the matriarch of a dynasty. Without her, Campbell admits, ‘it would’ve all broken.’ Her story is a reminder that in horse racing, as in life, it’s the unsung heroes—the mares, the trainers, the teams—who often make the magic happen. So, what’s your take? Is it the horse, the team, or the vision that truly drives success? Let us know in the comments!
